The University of Rhode Island
Department of Journalism
Mission

The study and practice of journalism require the acquisition and application of a broad base of knowledge, so Journalism majors at the University of Rhode Island pursue a course of study that is strongly grounded in the liberal arts. Along with General Education and Elective courses from other disciplines, the major requires students to explore the concepts and professional practices of contemporary journalism in a diverse society. While studying the social, historical, legal and ethical contexts of journalism, students also learn how to gather, synthesize and critically assess factual information and communicate it clearly to a variety of audiences. Journalism "skills courses" -- through individual and collaborative assignments -- focus on reporting, writing, editing and producing news. "Conceptual" courses provide students the intellectual foundation and framework necessary to be a responsible journalist. And through its General Education course offerings, the Department of Journalism provides non-majors a forum for studying the importance of journalism and the role of the mass media in society. (revised Spring 2008)